175 The outstanding career of Lionel Messi is finally over. In addition to the Champions Leagues, domestic championships and trophies, and the Copa America he won with Argentina in 2021, the Argentina captain has now added a World Cup winners’ medal. And he did it elegantly. Messi did everything he could to bring long-awaited gold for Argentina with two goals in a thrilling championship game and a successful penalty in the shootout. He was also named the tournament’s top player and received the Golden Ball award. Is the GOAT discussion finally over? Most likely not. There will always be people who prefer Cristiano Ronaldo, Diego Maradona, and Pele above the 35-year-old, but with a World Cup victory under his belt, you can guarantee that Messi won’t give a damn about the never-ending discussion over who the best player ever was. The fact that no one has ever been able to identify the significant title that Messi’s career is lacking is what matters most to him. Just as Maradona did in Mexico in 1986, he not only succeeded in lifting it today but also encouraged and motivated Argentina to victory. Messi’s event has been Qatar 2022. With the exception of the group stage victory against Poland, where Wojciech Szczesny saved his penalty, he has scored in every game and stepped up every time Argentina has needed him to make a difference. He scored significant goals against Mexico and Australia, provided outstanding assists to Nahuel Molina and Julian Alvarez against the Netherlands and Croatia, respectively, and, in the championship match against France, helped Argentina win by scoring a penalty in the first half. For Messi, it has been the ideal tournament in every way. The ideal finishing touch for an unparalleled career. Lionel Messi has won several medals throughout his club career, but the Argentina captain has finally taken home the ultimate award with his nation. You Might Be Interested In Singapore haven for the rich but HK comeback tipped Asia has the time to address demographic challenges, but not much time to waste Typhoon Doksuri shuts businesses, grounds flights in Taiwan Goodyear Unveils RL-5K Off-the-Road Tire with Three-Star Load Capacity ‘Alcohol Lovers Association’ calls on Bommai’s govt. with demands to provide “insurance, kids’ quota” for members Preparations Underway for King Charles’ Coronation with St. Edward’s Crown